It seems that Adrian Peterson may get to take the field before the season ends after all. It now seems likely that Peterson will get reinstated to the NFL, leaving the Minnesota Vikings with a decision about how to handle the star running back's situation.

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According to media reports, it now appears likely that Peterson will be reinstated by league appeals officer Harold Henderson, although nothing is certain at this time. Still, assuming it happens, the reinstatement will likely be handed down next week, freeing Peterson up to return to the Vikings.

But will he? The Vikings have not yet commented on the situation, but they are not in the middle of a playoff race, so there would seem to be little reason to rush to get Peterson on the field for their final three games. In fact, they would not be required to even put him on the active roster, and they may decide not to while the consider the long-term ramifications of keeping Peterson around.

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Another alternative would be for Minnesota to release Peterson, which would enable him to join another team that wanted him in time for a playoff push. In that scenario, it is feasible that a few different teams, including the Arizona Cardinals and Indianapolis Colts, could be interested in Peterson's services. However, much like the Ray Rice situation, any team that brought Peterson aboard would have to be prepared for the media circus that would ensue and a potential negative backlash from portions of the fan base.

The Vikings may also elect to bring Peterson back to give him some carries with the hopes of increasing his trade value ahead of the draft. Jerick McKinnon has shown promise for the Vikings, and they may be content to deal Peterson to another team for a mid-round pick.